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PRE-CERTIFICATION

One of UPN's goals is to develop a robust and thorough pre-certification process for aspiring peer specialists. In this process, we will orient peer applicants to Recovery Oriented Systems of Care, what to expect during training, how to get the most out of training, and how to utilize training to enter the workforce and join the Utah Peer Network.

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UPN is creating a process of pre-screening, where we can have a panel of certified peer specialists to help answer your questions. This would set the tone for training and ensure that you have all the info you need to be successful and provide meaningful context to this new peer journey. A pre-certification workshop would also educate prospective peer specialists about ongoing employment support and professional development possibilities. Ask us about a pre-certification info presentation!

HOW TO APPLY

To become a Certified Peer Support Specialist, you will need to apply to the State's Office of Substance Use and Mental Health. The following items are the listed requirements for application:

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  • A brief summary of your recovery journey, focusing on the recovery and success, rather than your active use history. Highlight how you support your recovery and help the community.

  • Two letters of reference, one from a clinical professional, and one professional reference who is aware of your recovery experiences

  • Complete the application and submit it to the Utah Office of Substance Use and Mental Health, click here and scroll to the bottom of the page, under forms, for the application. Scan the application and send it to utahpeersupport@utah.gov

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Once you have gathered the items above and submitted your application, reach out to UPN and we can support you in getting into training as soon as possible. We will also support you during the certification process if you have questions or concerns and after certification through ongoing training and continuing education unit (CEU) opportunities. Find more information about this below.  

CERTIFICATION

CPSS training is 40 hours over five days and is offered in various locations, with new hybrid options becoming available. If you are employed already, talk to your employer about doing this training during your working hours. Each provider adheres to peer support core competencies while offering specific and unique aspects that may fit better for different applicants. You can find more about these details below. 

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If you need help finding training that works for you, contact us and we will help you. You can expect to learn many ways to help others using your recovery story, the Utah Peer Support Code of Ethics, motivational interviewing, how to navigate peer work's unique challenges, and many other useful tools.

 

At the end of the week, you will take an exam that if passed successfully, will result in your certification as a Certified Peer Support Specialist valid throughout Utah.

THINGS TO KNOW IN TRAINING

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMSHA), there are five core Peer Support competencies. Peer Support is:

  1. Recovery-oriented

  2. Person-centered

  3. Voluntary

  4. Relationship-focused

  5. Trauma-informed

 

SAMHSA also provides a working definition of recovery that is often utilized in CPSS training and practice. "Recovery is a process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live self-directed lives, and strive to reach their full potential." Within this definition, SAMHSA has identified four major dimensions of recovery that inform recovery support services:

  1. Health

  2. Home

  3. Purpose

  4. Community

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Recovery Oriented Systems of Care: SAMSHA defines ROSC as: "A ROSC is a coordinated network of community-based services and supports that is person-centered and builds on the strengths and resiliencies of individuals, families, and communities to achieve abstinence and improved health, wellness, and quality of life for those with or at risk of alcohol and drug problems."

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